Ever feel like no matter how much you eat, your weight just won't go up? If you have a naturally lighter build, it could be that your body might be struggling to absorb all the nutrients from your food. Ayurveda can help by gently resetting your metabolism and improving how your body takes in nourishment. It all starts with balancing your Agni (the digestive fire), which supports healthy weight gain by nourishing your tissues deeply.
In Ayurveda, both weight loss and weight gain are often linked to imbalances in the Vata dosha. Vata is dry and light, and folks with a Vata-dominant constitution usually share these physical traits. So the key here is calming that restless Vata energy by focusing on oily, substantial, and grounding foods.
Ayurvedic Ways to Gain Weight
Ayurvedic weight gain treatments work on different levels to bring about balanced and lasting changes. Going the Ayurvedic route is pretty safe, but it’s a good idea to check in with your doctor if you’re on any medications or have health concerns.
Here are some natural ways to gain weight:
1. Centre Your Mind
Stress and constant worrying keep your body on edge, making it harder to absorb nutrients properly. Calming your mind and finding some stability helps your body be more open to nourishment and supports weight gain naturally.
Also read: Managing Stress Naturally: Remedies and Diet
2. Follow a Routine
When your body clock is out of sync with nature's rhythms, it can throw your doshas off balance. Sticking to a predictable daily routine helps keep your internal systems in harmony, allowing your body to digest and absorb nutrients better.
3. Practice Yoga Daily
Yoga is a great way to refresh your tissues, clear metabolic pathways, and flush out toxins. With gentle stretches and focused breathing, yoga supports both your mind and body. Try alternate nostril breathing (nadi shodhana) to soothe your nervous system, calm Vata, and direct energy to deep tissues.
4. Take Proper Rest
Eating well is important, but so is letting your body rest and recover. Inconsistent sleep patterns can mess with your biological clock, affect your mental health, and slow down your metabolism. Aim for a solid 8 hours of sleep to give your body time to absorb all that nourishment.
5. Eat at Least Three Complete Meals Daily
Your body flourishes on routine, especially when it comes to meals. Three complete, nourishing meals keep your energy steady and your body fueled. Skipping meals or having irregular eating patterns can throw things off and deepen imbalances.
Best Ayurvedic Herbs for Weight Gain
Ayurveda also suggests a herbal boost to support your weight gain journey, customized to your needs:
- Ashwagandha
- Triphala
- Yashtimadhu
These herbs are rich in nourishing qualities that help build strength and body mass. For example, Ashwagandha, a star ingredient in Ashwagandhadi Lehyam, is famous not only for weight gain but also for improving muscle strength.
Chyavanprash Lehyam: For Immunity, Strength & Longevity
Top Foods & Diet to Help You Gain Weight
When it comes to gaining weight, what you eat matters more than how much you exercise. Try adding these to your diet for better results:
- Bananas: Full of calories and mood boosters. Eating two a day can really help.
- Potatoes: Boiled potatoes are packed with carbs, vitamins, and plant protein, great for healthy weight gain.
- Dry Fruits and Nuts: Almonds, raisins, peanuts, and figs with milk speed up your weight gain goals.
- Dairy Products: Full-cream milk, cottage cheese, butter, and other dairy goodies support healthy weight gain.
Also read: Guide to Weight Management in Ayurveda
Ghee as a Remedy for Ayurvedic Weight Gain
Ghee is a natural fat and a favorite home remedy in Ayurveda for weight gain. It boosts appetite, supports Agni, and calms Vata dosha. Most people enjoy it with chapati or poured over curry and lentils. The best time to have ghee for weight gain is during or right before your meals.
Promoting Appetite Through Exercise and Yoga
Contrary to what many believe, exercise and yoga can actually help you gain weight when paired with the right diet. They boost your appetite, reset your metabolism, and help your body detox naturally. Regular physical activity stimulates digestion and encourages your body to absorb nutrients better. Plus, yoga helps reduce stress and calms your nervous system, which supports better metabolic balance.
Conclusion
Gaining weight the healthy way can feel tricky, especially if your body struggles to absorb nutrients. Ayurveda offers a natural approach focused on balancing your digestive fire and calming restless Vata energy. By following simple lifestyle tips and including nourishing herbs and ghee in your diet, you can support your body’s ability to gain weight sustainably. Remember, consistency and a balanced routine are key to feeling stronger and healthier from the inside out.
FAQs
1. Does ashwagandha increase weight?
Yes, ashwagandha can help increase weight by improving muscle mass and overall strength, especially when combined with a healthy diet and exercise.
2. Which dosha type causes weight gain?
Kapha dosha often leads to weight gain because it slows down metabolism and the body’s response to temperature, making it easier to gain and store fat.
3. What is the fastest way to increase muscle mass and strength naturally?
The fastest natural way to build muscle and strength is a combination of proper diet, regular resistance training, and supplements like ashwagandha that support muscle growth and recovery.
4. How to take ghee for weight gain?
To support healthy weight gain, take ghee 2–3 times a day. Having ghee on an empty stomach in the morning helps build weight gradually and acts as a natural energy booster.
